While the second lament contains the theme of Jerusalem’s fall, it is distinguished from the first by a more bitter description of the oppressed, helpless, and the comfortless condition of the city. Furthermore, the judgment which the Lord has decreed forms the leading thought. This is seen by the prominence repeatedly given to the wrath, rage and burning anger of God.1
The second lament further distinguishes itself from the first in its absence of allusions to later events. From this it has been surmised that the second lament was composed immediately after Jerusalem's capture.2
1 Eh quoi! le Seigneur, dans sa colère, a couvert de nuages la fille de Sion! Il a précipité du ciel sur la terre la magnificence d'Israël! Il ne s'est pas souvenu de son marchepied, Au jour de sa colère!